Top reasons why people migrate

People migrate for many reasons, ranging from security, demography and human rights to poverty and climate change. In 2018, there were over 244 million migrants internationally, making up 3.3% of the global population. In the UK, non-EU citizens accounted for 62% of long-term immigration. 

Although some choose to migrate, others are forced to because of political persecution, war and sudden natural disasters. However, in 2018, asylum was the least common reason for immigration. Moving for work and study purposes made up 71% of long-term immigration to the UK. 

The International Organisation of Migration defined a migrant as: “A person who moves away from their place of usual residence, whether within a country or across an international border, temporarily or permanently, and for a variety of reasons.”

An immigration lawyer can help individuals across the globe navigate the challenges of moving to a new country.  

Here are the most common reasons for migration.

Socio-political factors

People often move to another country to be closer to their friends and family and seek a better quality of life. The individual may be trying to escape political persecution or war because of their ethnicity, political stance, culture and religion. In this instance. Individuals typically seek asylum in the nearest safe country. 

Demographic and economic factors

In some countries, the population is growing, shrinking, ageing or youthful. All of these factors can impact the country’s economy and employment opportunities. People may move to a different country if they cannot find work or healthy labour standards in their home country. They may move to a country with a better job market, higher wages, and better living standards. 

Environmental factors

As our environment deteriorates at the hands of global warming, we are likely to see more natural disasters across the world. Environmental migrants typically move away from their home country because of a sudden natural disaster. For example, floods, hurricanes, tsunamis and earthquakes can cause detrimental damage to a country’s infrastructure. These damages can cost time, money, and effort to resolve, placing a significant strain on its economy.

Environmental migrants may be obliged to leave their homes temporarily as things are rebuilt and cleaned up. Natural disasters can leave permanent damage in more impoverished areas that forces people to leave their homes indefinitely. 

Environmental changes can be sudden or progressive, but they often have detrimental consequences on the local community’s lives and living conditions. These individuals may move to a country with better infrastructure, quality of living and lower risk of extreme natural disasters.